Thoughts on National Diabetes Day: From a Person Without Diabetes

I was first introduced into the diabetes community just a few months ago when I began working for ExpressionMed as a marketing and communications lead.

I do not have diabetes, and the only person I previously knew with diabetes before working for ExpressionMed was my grandmother. And I'll be honest, when I was first learning all about the Type One community, it was confusing and overwhelming. I didn't understand how Dexcoms and other CGMs worked. I didn't understand hypers and hypos and how blood glucose worked. I didn't understand the struggles that people with Type One Diabetes experience every. single. day.

However, after learning and talking with many people who are Type One and have openly explained their stories and challenges, I feel equipped to go out into the world and tell others about diabetes and the need to find a cure. And the need to make diabetes supplies and insulin more affordable for the countless individuals and families whose life depends on it.

This is why Diabetes Awareness Month in November is so powerful. People like myself who don't have diabetes but are advocates have the ability to make a difference and educate others about Type One and the importance of supporting the community.

So to everyone out there who is a Type One, thank you for sharing your stories whether they be about struggles or successes. You help show the world that anything is possible and that you are not defined by diabetes. Thank you for inspiring me and countless others in your daily fight.

My thoughts on National Diabetes Day: Enjoy today, it is to celebrate you and your resilience. If you are not a part of the diabetes community, talk to a person with diabetes and learn as much as you can! Jdrf.org or thediabeticjourney.com are a great place to start. Become an advocate for those who fight 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.